Occlusal Splints Kellyville
Bite splints and occlusal guards are protective devices made to extend the overall function of your smile. Since time, stress and habits can lead to worn enamel, an occlusal splint minimises unnecessary abrasion to your teeth. When worn regularly, they can physically prevent the extra strain on your smile, thus preserving the more youthful, full appearance of healthy teeth.
Side Effects of Tooth Wear
Tooth enamel is extremely dense. It’s the hardest substance in the entire human body and even harder than the healthiest of bones. However, tooth-on-tooth wear can cause accelerated enamel loss.
In time, all of that wear and tear can lead to
- Flat, short teeth
- Sharp edges
- Broken dental work
- Dental emergencies
- Toothaches
Even if we repair broken, worn-out teeth with a durable porcelain crown or filling, nothing is quite as strong as tooth enamel. In other words, we want to help you preserve your natural tooth structure as long as possible. That’s exactly what an occlusal splint does!
Bruxism (Clenching and Grinding)
Chronic teeth clenching and grinding is known as ‘bruxism’. Typically most people who brux their teeth do it at times of heightened stress (like at work, during your commute home or due to personal concerns) or while they’re sleeping.
If you’re aware that you have bruxism and you’re doing it most throughout the day, it may be possible to consciously break the habit. Unfortunately, most of us clench and grind our teeth subconsciously without ever thinking about it. In that case, an occlusal splint can be beneficial.
A nightguard is a specific type of occlusal splint that’s made to wear while you’re sleeping. The streamlined design helps it stay in place throughout the night so that it won’t fall out. Plus, its snug fit will discourage you from removing it while you’re asleep.
Since a majority of clenching and grinding happens while we’re sleeping, investing in a nightguard can help extend the lifetime of your smile.
Are you (or your child) involved in athletic activities? Facial and oral injuries are some of the most common emergencies seen in recreational sport. Wearing a protective sports mouthguard can safeguard you against broken or knocked-out teeth, split lips and even concussions. The key is to invest in a professionally-fitted design that will offer the best level of protection.
Do I Have TMJ Disorder?
Bite splints are frequently used to help manage TMJ disorder (TMD). Since the biting relationship of your teeth directly impacts the health and function of your jaws, occlusal splints can provide much-needed relief. Should you get a splint for TMJ pain relief? Yes, if you’re experiencing joint soreness, limited range of motion or pain when biting and chewing. The source of your discomfort is likely from clenching or grinding in your sleep. However, other factors may also play a role. We can perform a TMJ screening during your routine checkup and answer any questions you may have.Bite Splints for Smile Makeover Patients
Investing in a smile makeover is a life-changing experience. You want your new restorations — be they cosmetic veneers or porcelain crowns — to last as long as possible. If you grind your teeth it could chip your restorations while you sleep. Wearing an occlusal splint can safeguard your ceramic dental work to reduce your chances of unwanted damage.Faq
Do you have a headache when you wake up in the morning? Are your teeth or jaw sore? Do you notice your teeth clenched tightly together during the day instead of relaxing slightly apart? Are any of your teeth flat or chipped? If so, then you’re probably suffering from bruxism.
Teeth grinding can be caused by a stressful lifestyle or medical conditions like obstructive sleep apnoea. More often than not, we have no control over the factors that cause us stress or alter our sleep quality. Instead, we must take steps to prevent physical strain and trauma that occurs as a side effect.
Stock mouthguards are one-size-fits-some, meaning that they typically fit more loosely and are not as comfortable. Unfortunately, the more generic fit means that they’re more likely to fall out or get taken out purposely. When you wear a custom appliance it will be easier to sleep or work out without it getting in the way.
A Smart Way To Protect Your Smile
* Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
